In a groundbreaking move that underscores the rising prominence of women’s sports, tennis sensation Coco Gauff has expanded her influence beyond the tennis court by investing in Unrivaled, a pioneering 3-on-3 professional women’s basketball league. This strategic investment not only highlights Gauff’s commitment to elevating women’s athletics but also aligns her with a cadre of esteemed athletes and celebrities dedicated to transforming the landscape of women’s basketball.
Unrivaled, co-founded by WNBA luminaries Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, was conceived to provide a dynamic platform for women’s basketball, particularly during the WNBA off-season. The league is set to feature six teams, each comprising five players, engaging in an electrifying 3-on-3 format. The inaugural season is slated to tip off on January 17 in Miami, showcasing a roster of 36 WNBA stars, including high-profile players like Sabrina Ionescu, Angel Reese, Breanna Stewart, Napheesa Collier, and Brittney Griner. The league’s innovative structure includes a total player salary pool of $8 million, with average salaries of $222,222, and all inaugural players will also have ownership equity in the league.
Expressing her enthusiasm, Gauff stated, “I’m thrilled to be joining Unrivaled as an investor. Basketball is one of my favorite sports, and the chance to support a league that’s redefining the game … .”
Gauff’s investment comes on the heels of Unrivaled’s successful Series A funding round, which secured over $28 million, bringing the total capital raised to $35 million. This financial milestone reflects the tangible enthusiasm for Unrivaled that transcends and elevates women’s sports. The league’s investor roster reads like a who’s who of sports and entertainment, featuring names such as NBA stars Giannis Antetokounmp … and Carmelo Anthony, soccer icon Alex Morgan, Olympic swimming legend Michael Phelps, and actors Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis.
The league’s co-founders have been vocal about their mission to revolutionize women’s basketball. “For years, women have relied heavily on off-court sponsorships for a majority of their income,” Stewart noted. “With Unrivaled, we’re revolutionizing the game by prioritizing investments in our stars and ensuring their on-court performance is reflected in their pay.”
Collier echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the league’s commitment to fair compensation. “The principle of our league is that it’s the top talent, and women need to be paid accordingly,” she asserted. “We need to be treated as professionals, and so that was a huge thing, is making sure that this is transformative, and something that’s new is we’re going to be paying players what they should be paid.”
The league’s format is designed to captivate audiences with its fast-paced, high-energy games. Each game will consist of four seven-minute quarters, played on a half-court, with a 12-second shot clock to keep the action brisk. This structure not only highlights the players’ athleticism and skill but also caters to modern viewers’ preferences for quick, engaging content.
Unrivaled’s commitment to its players extends beyond competitive salaries. All inaugural players will receive equity in the league, fostering a sense of ownership and investment in its success. This innovative approach aims to empower athletes and ensure that they benefit directly from the league’s growth and prosperity.
The league has also secured a multi-year media rights partnership with TNT Sports, ensuring that games will be broadcast live on TNT and truTV, with all games also being streamed … This agreement guarantees substantial exposure for the league and its players, bringing women’s basketball to a broader audience.
Gauff’s involvement with Unrivaled is particularly poignant given her personal connection to basketball. Her father, Corey Gauff, is a former Georgia State University basketball player, and she has often spoken about her love for the sport. In a lighthearted social media post, Gauff quipped, “My dad always wanted me to … .” She added, “In all seriousness, I’m incredibly grateful to get the opportunity to … Unrivaled family! I can’t wait to watch.”
Gauff’s investment in Unrivaled is a testament to her dedication to advancing women’s sports. As the highest-paid female athlete in 2024, with earnings approaching $35 million from on-court performances and endorsements, her support brings significant attention and credibility to the league. Her involvement not only amplifies the league’s profile but also underscores the growing trend of athletes investing in ventures that promote gender equity in sports.
Unrivaled’s investor list includes a diverse array of supporters from various industries. Beyond the aforementioned athletes and celebrities, the league has attracted backing from prominent figures such as Linda Henry, CEO of Boston Globe … ; Marc Lasry, CEO of Avenue Sports Fund; and Nicole Phelps, president of the … . This eclectic mix of investors reflects the widespread belief in Unrivaled’s mission and the potential for women’s basketball to reach new heights.
The league’s inaugural season promises to be a landmark event in women’s sports. With a lineup of marquee players, substantial financial backing, and a commitment to innovation and equity, Unrivaled is poised to make a significant impact. Fans can look forward to thrilling games, compelling storylines, and a celebration of athletic excellence as the league embarks on its maiden voyage.
In conclusion, Coco Gauff’s investment in Unrivaled signifies a pivotal moment in the evolution of women’s sports. Her support, alongside that of other high-profile investors, underscores a growing recognition of the value and potential of women’s athletics. As Unrivaled prepares to launch its inaugural season, it embodies a bold vision for the future—one where female athletes receive the recognition, compensation, and opportunities they deserve.
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